It doesn’t matter what size your business is or the industry it serves. Your success will rely on your ability to digitalize effectively.
The vast majority of businesses today have operations that are at least partly digital, a figure predicted to keep growing in the years to come. The digital world is your infrastructure.
Being able to navigate it and thrive requires a strong grasp of the basics. One of the most important things to know today is the difference between a network vs server.
These are the twin bedrocks of the digital world for all companies, each performing an essential role. Read on to find out exactly what you need to know.
What Is a Network?
A network is sort of a catch-all term. It describes an ecosystem of devices and systems that communicate with each other and engage in resource sharing.
In IT, this usually means the likes of computers, routers, switches, and, of course, different types of servers. Some networks are huge and cover thousands of devices across a company or organization. Others are tiny, with a single network often being just one person’s home devices.
In a nutshell, networks are all about sharing. This means data processing and sharing, and the sharing of tasks, connections, and films.
Today, you do not require any physical connection to a network. Anyone can purchase Microsoft RDS and instantly gain access to any devices on their network via the cloud, no matter where they are.
What Is a Server?
A server is a computer or an application that provides services, resources, or data to other devices on the network. They are designed to process requests from client devices, which can include computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
Servers play a role in providing services such as file storage, web hosting, email, database management, and more.
So, a network is an interconnected system of devices that enables resource sharing, while a server is a specialized computer or software application that provides services or resources to other devices on the network.
Network vs Server: Key Differences
Let’s break down the key differences between the two. While a network enables communication and sharing between devices, a server is a dedicated computer system that provides resources to that network.
Networks route traffic and are how we can actually connect to the internet in the first place. Servers provide services and resources to users of a given network. Servers process, networks facilitate.
A network is built up of devices and hardware such as routers and cables, while a server is essentially a single computer with specialized hardware.
Networks can be located anywhere and spread across continents. Meanwhile, servers are usually located in a single physical space, such as a data center.
The Technology Trends That Affect You
The network vs server distinction is an important one that even experienced business professionals fail to understand.
However, getting on top of these essential definitions will help you navigate your own IT more smoothly, and thrive in a digital world.
For more insights on the concrete tech trends that affect you directly, you have come to the right place. Our dedicated Technology section has up-to-date insights that you can rely on.
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